Reagan Musinguzi
As part of efforts to reduce pressure on natural resources and restore degraded ecosystems, communities within the Mpanga Catchment are embracing tree growing and sustainable livelihood activities to protect the environment while improving household incomes.
Stakeholders involved in restoration efforts say environmental protection cannot succeed without addressing the social and economic challenges faced by communities that depend on natural resources.
Athieno Caroline, who works with Jesse on tree-growing activities, said the progress made has been driven by collaboration among district authorities, communities, schools, farmers, and development partners.
She noted that different stakeholders have played an important role in supporting tree-growing initiatives aimed at restoring degraded areas and promoting environmental conservation.
Activities
School pupils have been trained in environmental protection practices and are now acting as ambassadors, creating awareness among their peers, families, and communities.
Farmers have also been supported with training on tree planting and monitoring, helping them integrate trees into farming systems while promoting soil conservation, environmental protection, and improved nutrition.
Atieno recognized the contribution of district technical teams, including environment officers, whose support has strengthened tree-planting efforts at community level.
She added that regional dialogue meetings held in 2024 and 2025, together with field visits, helped stakeholders identify environmental challenges, understand community needs, and develop better restoration strategies.
Meanwhile, in Karangura, Kabarole District, communities have embraced sustainable livelihood initiatives aimed at reducing dependence on natural resources.
Hassan Bwambale says that in 2015, the community struggled with soil erosion, unsafe water, low agricultural production, poor saving culture, and school dropouts.
He explains that interventions focusing on water improvement, agricultural development, savings groups, and alternative livelihoods have helped transform the community while supporting environmental conservation.
Through initiatives such as beekeeping, poultry, and goat rearing, young people are now engaged in productive activities, reducing school dropouts and early marriages while creating alternative sources of income.
Hassan, who owns 132 colonized beehives, says beekeeping has not only improved his livelihood but also enabled him to train youth groups as a self-employed beekeeping trainer.
He says these initiatives are helping communities become more resilient while reducing pressure on forests and other natural resources.
Stakeholders say the success of tree growing and livelihood programmes has been strengthened by continued support from partners and donors, as well as learning and replication of successful approaches from other organizations.
The interventions form part of broader efforts to protect the Mpanga Catchment by restoring ecosystems, empowering communities, and ensuring sustainable management of natural resources for future generations.